Could Coyotes deal cloud Glendale Glitters future?

GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Glendale City Council has approved a $320 million deal to keep the Phoenix Coyotes at Jobing.com Arena. Those who opposed the deal said the city can’t afford it.

If the naysayers are right, could that lead to cancellation of festivals like Glendale Glitters?

Dozens of people were strolling through the downtown Christmas lights display Wednesday evening, enjoying the display.

Judy Purdy has lived in Glendale for 12 years.

“Back in Illinois, we had a park where they used to have trees,” Purdy said. “They finally had to ask people to donate money towards the lights. If [Glendale] had to do that, I think people would be willing.”

Tiffany Young of Glendale is a big fan of Glendale Glitters.

“It’s a place to get away,” Young said. “I think there’s not too many family oriented things in Arizona that you can do. I think this is one of the good ones.”

And if wasn’t there anymore? “It would be kind of sad,” Young said.

Glendale officials aren’t talking. Deputy communications director Jerry McCoy declined an interview, referring questions instead to Mayor Elaine Scruggs.

Neither Scruggs nor Mayor-elect Jerry Weiers responded to interview requests.